ABSI (A Body Shape Index) Calculator
Estimate your health risk based on your body shape and waist circumference.
Information
ABSI (A Body Shape Index) measures health risks associated with waist circumference (WC), taking into account BMI and height. Higher ABSI values are associated with higher risk of premature mortality.
Personal Information
Waist Circumference
Your ABSI Results
Your BMI:
0.0 kg/m²
Your ABSI Value:
0.0000
Your ABSI Z-Score:
0.00
Risk Category: Average
Understanding Your Results
Health Considerations
Understanding A Body Shape Index (ABSI)
The A Body Shape Index (ABSI) was developed in 2012 as a metric to better assess the health risks associated with body shape, particularly central obesity (excess abdominal fat).
Why ABSI Matters
While BMI (Body Mass Index) is widely used to assess overall body size, it doesn't account for the distribution of body fat. Research shows that central obesity (excess fat around the waist) is a stronger predictor of mortality risk than overall weight. ABSI was designed to address this limitation by incorporating waist circumference in relation to height and weight.
ABSI Risk Categories and Mortality Risk
| ABSI Z-Score Range | Risk Category | Mortality Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Below -0.868 | Very Low | Approximately 25% below average |
| -0.868 to -0.272 | Low | Approximately 15% below average |
| -0.272 to 0.229 | Average | Near average |
| 0.229 to 0.798 | High | Approximately 25% above average |
| Above 0.798 | Very High | Approximately 50% above average |
Factors That Affect ABSI
- Waist Circumference: Central adiposity (fat around the waist) is the primary factor affecting ABSI.
- Age: ABSI tends to increase with age as body composition changes.
- Sex: Men and women typically have different body fat distributions, affecting average ABSI values.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise can reduce waist circumference independent of BMI.
- Diet: Dietary patterns affect not just overall weight but also where fat is distributed.
- Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to store fat in the abdominal area.
ABSI vs. Other Metrics
| Metric | What it Measures | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| BMI | Overall body size | Doesn't account for fat distribution or muscle mass |
| Waist Circumference | Abdominal obesity | Doesn't account for overall body size |
| Waist-to-Hip Ratio | Fat distribution pattern | Doesn't account for overall body size |
| ABSI | Waist circumference relative to height and weight | Newer metric with less widespread clinical use |
Health Advice
If your ABSI is high, focus on reducing waist circumference through targeted lifestyle changes: regular physical activity with both cardio and strength training, a balanced diet rich in whole foods, adequate sleep, and stress management. Consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.